Quincy’s eyes widened in astonishment. It was shocking that he wasn’t able to react in time to Dustin’s silver needle with his skills.
If used against Marco, Dustin might just have a chance of winning. Not to mention, Quincy had sensed the faint aura of a grandmaster through the silver needle that flew by.
He wondered if the unknown young man before him could actually be a martial arts grandmaster.
“Elder Douglas, I think I qualify for a duel now, don’t you think?” Dustin asked.
After a moment’s hesitation, Quincy eventually nodded. “Alright, since you’re this confident, I’ll give you a chance. I hope you won’t disappoint us.
If Dustin was a grandmaster, coupled with his amazing hidden weapon techniques, there was a good chance
that he might just emerge victorious.
“Elder Douglas, is this a joke? You’re really going to allow him to duel?”
“Elder Douglas, that kid is just a lone wanderer! How is he worthy of representing Dragonmarsh in a duel?”
“It’s such an embarrassment that we’re sending someone like him to fight!”
Many among the crowd were displeased with Quincy’s decision. Dustin neither had the background, the prestige, nor the skills to represent Dragonmarsh in a duel.
“Everyone, please calm down.” Quincy tried to placate the crowd. “This young man has an extraordinary temperament and a rich cultivation. He is certainly no ordinary martial artist, and I believe in his abilities.
“Elder Douglas, this is a bad decision!” Ruby retorted, “It’s all just a front! Don’t be fooled!”
Quincy was the Celestial Alliance’s guardian, and Ruby couldn’t understand the reason behind his trust in an insignificant character like Dustin.
“Elder Douglas, this is our last chance! If he loses, who will take up the responsibility?” Miles questioned.
“That’s right! Who will take responsibility?” The crowd echoed.
“This was my decision. If he loses the battle, I’ll cut off an arm as an apology to everyone!” Quincy declared loudly.
With that, the crowd quieted down. Nobody expected Quincy to be so supportive of Dustin that he would go as far as severing his arm as a guarantee.
At that moment, even if they were displeased, there was nothing more that could be said.
“Young man, it’s your time to shine.” Quincy walked up to Dustin and patted him on the shoulder. He said meaningfully, “Remember, victory is crucial! Dragonmarsh can’t afford any more losses.”
“Don’t worry, Elder Douglas. I will do my best.” Dustin nodded solemnly.
He never expected such unwavering support from Quincy. Whether it was for personal or public reasons, he was determined not to let him down.
“Elder Douglas made a foolish decision. I can’t believe he trusted him.” Miles shook his head in resignation.
“I know, right? It’ll be the ultimate disgrace if we lose three consecutive matches!” Ruby was both anxious and frustrated.
“What are you two worried about? Dustin has a chance of winning.” Dalen smirked.
“Dalen, how can you still back him in this situation?” Ruby frowned as she complained, “Even my senior and Vincent were defeated. Just how is he going to win?”
“We shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Since Dustin dared issue a challenge, I’m sure he’s confident of winning,” Dalen responded.
“Hmph! Confident my foot! He’s just seeking attention!” Ruby snorted.
“Since you don’t believe in him, why don’t we make a bet?” Dalen smiled faintly.
“What kind of a bet?” Ruby countered.
“We’ll make it simple. We’ll just bet on who wins or loses.”
Dalen continued with a smile, “If Dustin wins, you’ll have to apologize to him and admit to your mistakes.”
“And if he loses?” Ruby asked with her head held high.
“If he loses, I’ll present you with a sword from the Renowned Treasure List,” Dalen responded.
“For real?” Ruby’s eyes lit up.
While the Renowned Treasure List wasn’t as prestigious as the Divine Weapon List, it still housed valuable treasures.
Among them was the Flame Sword, a prized possession cherished by her master. As a disciple of the Sword Union, she was deeply passionate about swords and had always longed for one listed on the Renowned Treasure List.
Now that she had the chance to get ahold of one herself, it excited her immensely.
“I never go back on my words.” Dalen. assured as he fanned himself.
“Alright! I’m in!” Ruby agreed immediately.
“I’m dying to see just how badly he loses!”
